Styrofoam™

Styrofoam™ Overview

Styrofoam™ is a closed-cell extruded polystyrene foam manufactured by The Dow Chemical Company. The name Styrofoam™ is also commonly used to refer to many expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products. Laser processing of Styrofoam™ can be performed with a 10.6 or 9.3 micron CO2 laser. The laser energy of a 1.06 micron fiber laser is not absorbed by most polystyrene foams and is not recommended for use with this material. Laser cutting of Styrofoam™ provides smooth edges without a change in color. Laser engraving of Styrofoam™ is achieved when the CO2 laser energy is absorbed, leading both to ablation and collapse of the cells within the foam. The result is a clean, uniform engraving that can be used to create intricate patterns and text.